Drew Brees, Jason Kelce.Photo:Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic; Perry Knotts/Getty
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic; Perry Knotts/Getty
Former quarterbackDrew Breesis honoringJason Kelce’s legendary NFL career in the most generous way.
Brees, 45, announced that Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux, a chain restaurant he co-owns, will give scholarships to 13 walk-on athletes in honor ofnewly-retired Kelce, 36.
The former New Orleans Saints star shared the news in avideoannouncement, beginning with a “big congratulations” to Kelce on “an extraordinary 13-year NFL career.”
Brees said, “From his days as a college walk-on at Cincinnati to becoming one of the most highly-respected names in the NFL, Jason’s journey has been nothing short of incredible.”
The retired quarterback said his Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux “loves to celebrate the heart and the hustle of the underdogs,” pointing to co-founder Brandon Landry, who was a walk-on basketball player for the LSU Tigers, and his brother, Reid Brees, a walk-on baseball player for Baylor University — and now Kelce.
Brees continued, “In honor of Jason Kelce’s retirement and his 13 remarkable seasons, we at Walk-Ons are offering this heartfelt tribute. We are awarding 13 scholarships to college walk-on athletes across the country.”
Jason Kelce of the Eagles.Tim Nwachukwu/Getty
Tim Nwachukwu/Getty
“These scholarships represent more than just financial aid. They’re a salute to the relentless spirit and the unwavering dedication that drives athletes to excel, mirroring the qualities that Jason Kelce showcased throughout his career.”
Kelce spoke about his experience as a walk-on at the University of Cincinnati during his emotional 40-minute retirement announcement on March 4 in front of friends and family, including his wifeKylie, brotherTravisand parentsDonnaandEd.
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The former Philadelphia Eagles center said, “From Cleveland Heights I entered the University of Cincinnati as a walk-on. As a linebacker, I had no idea what to expect, but scenes fromRudywould often race in my mind. It became apparent immediately that walk-ons would have to fight harder for their opportunities than the rest of the team.”
Kelce continued, “I had no stars, no investment from the team or the coaches. I had to earn everything, and that’s good, because I had no clue what hard work was yet. Knowing that I had to earn my respect everyday made me committed like never before.”
“That entire year I consider a blessing,” Kelce added, “and I redefined in my mind what working hard actually was,” he shared. “It pushed me into areas of fatigue I didn’t know I had, and for that experience, I am forever grateful to all of them.”
source: people.com
